YACHATS — A newly-arrived Texas couple is launching a sober dance club from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Yachats Commons.
“Dance Yachats” is a club created by Mike and Sharon Jones of Yachats, who are also opening a fitness and dance-related business in Newport. The twice-monthly event kicks off with an evening of “progressive country two-step,” Jones said, and neither a partner nor any experience are required.
“This is just for fun; it isn’t competitive dancing,” said Jones, who moved to Yachats three months ago from Texas.
Each club event will have a dance theme, such as ballroom, Latin, swing and more. At the end of each session, those in attendance will be able to vote on which dance type they’d like to explore next.
“You don’t need a partner and no experience is required. Feel free to bring a snack or a non- alcoholic beverage,” said Jones, who emphasized that comfortable, casual dress is all that’s required. There is a $5 suggested donation, which will go to the city for rental of the multipurpose room.
Jones will serve as deejay for the Saturday dance.
Retiring soon after 36 years in the crop insurance business, Jones has been dancing with his wife for 10 years. “We just love to dance, and just want to have a social, communal event for anyone to enjoy,”he said.
The couple sees Dance Yachats as an informal group activity that will be guided by those who take part. The alcohol-free aspect eliminates any liability or need for insurance. “It’s just more comfortable for everybody,” Jones said.
People interested in future Dance Yachats events may check the city’s online calendar or visit Dance Yachats’ Facebook page. The next two dances planned are scheduled March 16 and March 30.
The Jones have opened a dance and fitness studio in Newport called “ArtFit Oregon,” offering “aerial silks” classes for conditioning and flexibility. In the future, classes in belly dancing and pole dancing are planned. ArtFit Oregon is located at 710 N.E. Third St., Suite B, Newport.
